About James W.

Know what works and why and proceed to unleash your power as a performer. Film and TV and Stage are very different but all have things they share in common. I will teach you what you need to know.

About James

I worked for Eddie Van Halen for five years in the 1990's in the Beverly Hills area of Los Angeles and was instrumental in providing help with development of the Peavey Wolfgang and Wolfgang Special Guitar by providing feedback on the prototypes Eddie was designing at the time. I learned a lot from Eddie and his brother Alex about music and the music industry. (All you have to do is pay attention! ) I have played in bands from Hollywood to Toronto and back both as a singer songwriter and guitarist. I bring the Musicians Institute way to the table and get things up and running quickly. I help students get it under their fingers fast and get it right the first time.

I believe in sharing the happiness of making music with anyone who loves music and the guitar in particular. I do my very best to get you playing the songs you love in Pop,

Rock, Jazz and Folk Music of your choice. Today's modern new guitars are easy to play and you will enjoy learning Guitar right away. That is how it should be. When you study there is a basic understanding of Guitar to be learned that allows an ease of use for anyone for years to come. This will help you reach your goal and improve each week. My students learn to practice in a way that feels comfortable and makes sense. This takes all the stress out of learning and gives everyone something to smile about and look forward to each week.

The good feeling of playing along with friends and taking a solo is within every students grasp. I will show you the way there. And with a solid and straightforward approach to the theory as it applies directly to the guitar you will feel confident and unafraid of any music endeavor. We'll cover harmony and fingerboard theory and give you a road map of the guitar neck that makes it a pleasure to play. You learn the basics and much more than you thought possible retaining 90 percent of what you learn!

Having been a student myself I was deeply involved in music since age 12 and played in bands and duos for over 15 years . I can help you to be a well rounded player and performer with a smile, a laugh and a joy for music whether your in a band or a budding solo artist.

*** Lesson Details ***Most students want to play the Guitar to play their favorite songs and I'm the same way. Music is something we carry with us in our hearts and minds. Students will learn what they wish to learn and work at a pace that is comfortable to them. Whether you are a student, “weekend warrior” or a parent whose child has expressed an interest in Guitar anyone can learn all there is to know about Harmony and Theory for the Guitar and how to play their favorite songs.

We cover theory in an easy and straightforward no nonsense way in the first half of each lesson and then apply it to the song you wish to learn. This creates an atmosphere where you understand and feel at home with the Guitar. You get an understanding right away and because it is immediately fun it allows you to feel comfortable at any level. Music is fun, and songs are the creative expression of what we feel. Combining theory and the freedom to play and sing songs allows us to express ourselves through music. After 6 months students will have a solid foundation in theory, and a road map of the guitar fretboard enabling them to advance to an intermediate level if they are ready to do so. Students will know enough that music as it relates to the Guitar, which is the world’s most popular instrument in contemporary music, is not a mystery but is a welcome friend. And they will be able to play songs by popular artists and advance at a pace that is satisfying and enjoyable.----------------------------

Student Comments:What Students Are Saying About ~ James Teaching Style

“I studied guitar privately with James in 2010. His style of teaching helped me to get past my blocks. He opened new doors for me. Thanks!”--Daniel S., guitar student, Los Angeles, CA 2010""James is a trustworthy man, great with answering back right away. Always ready to help with new members. I would definitely recommend him." ~ PJ Stover of PJ Stover Voices; Independent Film & Recording voice-over artist -----------------------------------What James spouse says about working on songwriting with him:

"James is my husband for over 10 years now. Over the years, I have seen James give guidance and counsel to many hopeful musicians of all ages, and inspire others about how music influences and benefits our lives. I would highly recommend James to anyone who wants to learn guitar, voice, music theory, and acting. James is a great talent, and study with him would benefit anyone with the sincere desire to grow as an artist. When we married, I had fallen in love with James’ conversational style, and his vast knowledge of music. When I heard him play guitar, I knew that I wanted to write songs with him, and we released our first album, in 2012 on iTunes."

*** Specialties ***Songs in the following styles: Pop, Rock and Modern Country Music. Also Composition Analysis while learning the song.

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Reviews

Erin Virgili April 6, 2017·Improv Acting·Online

James was a wonderful instructor! Not only did he make my son feel confident about taking lessons he offered great advice and guidance about the acting industry. I would definitely recommend him to anyone seriously interested in improving their acting skills. My son is 12 years old.

James W.

James W.

About Rachel M.

Learn new method technique to achieve a full understanding of your character so you van feel confident that when you start performing, you will be your character from start to finish.

About Rachel

Rachel fully background checked by three different companies and is also fingerprinted.

Rachel's private studio is where you not only learn healthy technique, but how to become a self-sufficient artist. Professional training and customized programs in singing and acting technique. All learning styles, all ages, and all levels. Private lessons and group classes.

We prepare our students for the real world with up to date training (singing and acting) and both performance opportunities and showcases in front of industry professionals when students are ready.

Students come from all walks of life. All voice types, all ages, all levels, all mediums (TV-film-theatre), all character - ingenue actors, and ALL genres (Rock, Pop, Alternative, Funk, Soul, Musical Theater, R&B, Jazz, Opera) welcome!

Rachel's students have gone on nati

onal tours, released albums, are in bands, have been accepted into performing arts schools (high schools and colleges), have been cast in regional/Off-Off-Broadway/Off-Broadway Theatre, movies (Noah, The Wolf Of Wall Street, Finally Famous), music videos, and on TV (Royal Pains, Smash, 30 Rock, The Good Wife, Law and Order: SVU, & NBC's The Voice competition).

Rachel is a member of SAG-AFTRA, The National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS certified), VASTA (Voice And Speech Trainers Association), NARAS (The Grammy Awards), NAMTA, NJMEA (New Jersey Music Educators Association), NAfME (National Association of Music Education), NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association,) MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs), The NJ Theatre Alliance, NSA (Nashville Songwriting Association International), and BMI (Broadcast Music Inc). She has been teaching Bel Canto singing technique for the modern singer and Stella Adler-Stanislavsky-Chekhov-Meisner acting technique for all mediums for 15+ years to children, teens, and adults.

Rachel has trained at The Hages Music Studio under a master teacher for 22+ years in the Bel Canto singing technique for all genres, studied at The Stella Adler Studio of Acting in NYC as well as recorded and released her first album called "Just Meant To Be". Other credits include commercials, films, TV shows (One Tree Hill, AMC, Food Network), music videos (including Rachel's singles "Don't Even Try", "You Will Love On"), & numerous stage credits (Off-Broadway/NYC Theatre). Rachel most recently was seen in the reading of a new play "Vanishing Son" by Peter Gil-Sheridan performed in NYC. She is also a songwriter (16+ years), scriptwriter (10+ years), director (14+ years), and an international recording artist (10+ years).

Rachel has been performing for 20+ years, has performed in front of sold out crowds, and has been honored with many standing ovations. Other honors include magazine covers, featured articles, singing to thousands of people, studio recordings/albums, originated the role of "Antigone" in "Oedipus: The Musical", 2002 Helen Hayes Nomination for" Outstanding Vocal Performance in a Musical" ("Miss Adelaide" in "Guys And Dolls"), & 2008 finalist for NYC Singing Idol Competition. Rachel has also been fortunate to have worked & performed with many people in the business including Grammy-Tony-Emmy Award Winners/Nominees.

LESSON DETAILS

Whether you are a parent looking for instruction for your child, or for yourself, Rachel can customize the right program that best suits your needs. Her students come from all walks of life and have different goals, but they all have one thing in common. They love performing and have the desire to be the best at their chosen craft (singing/acting).

Some students want to sing/act for themselves, others want to sing/act for a hobby, and others want to be professional performers. That's where Rachel comes in. No matter what your goals are, she can help. Rachel teaches her students how to become true artists without tearing them down and without taking away the part of them that makes them unique. She teaches healthy technique that is based off of the human anatomy; the science of how the body/mind works and how the body/mind can work as efficiently as possible while singing or acting.

Learning how to sing/act is a process and doesn't happen overnight. Rachel's ultimate goal as a teacher is to not only make her students the best performers and singers they can be, but also give them all of the proper tools they need to have a more productive mind frame and become self-sufficient. Of course this can take years to master. It takes time and dedication.

OTHER LESSON INFORMATION

SINGING: Bel Canto singing technique for the modern singer is taught in private and group classes. No one sounds like old opera singers, even if the student wants to sing opera. Students are allowed to choose most of the material they learn in the lesson. There will be times when Rachel will suggest a song to a student but if the student doesn't enjoy the song, they will work as a team to find a song that does work for the student. Gain a better tone quality, complete control of your voice, bigger range, more flexibility, and confidence. Learn healthy voice technique, how to fully take care of your own voice so you can sing for the rest of your life (even after lessons), and become a self sufficient performer for life.

ACTING: Stella Adler, Stanislavsky, Chekhov, and Meisner Acting Technique for Theatre/Camera is taught in private and group classes. All students are exposed to each technique and Rachel sees which technique each student responds to the most. Once the student and Rachel are able to identify the technique, Rachel continues to use the terminology of that technique for the remainder of the time the student is in lessons. Students eventually are able to play roles truthfully and realistically, even if the roles are opposite of the student's own personality.

BY THE TIME STUDENTS GRADUATE FROM LESSONS:

1. Gain a lifelong, solid, consistent, and healthy technique that they can always count on in practice and performance.

2. Gain specific technical and personal notes in a notebook and/or computer file that is organized and always accessible for review.

3. Gain artistry, performance skills, and a strong voice that will look/sound authentic; Singers will sound appropriate to whatever style of music they are singing. (No fake sound or look.) Actors will just be in the moment and truthful whether they are on stage or in front of the camera.

4. Gain the confidence to always put on a great performance.

5. Gain focus and a more productive mind frame.

6. Become self-sufficient by knowing how to assess a problem and then fix it without creating a new issue.

*** Specialties ***We specialize in Bel Canto voice technique for the modern singer. Each student can sing all genres without sounding too classical, "fake", and without losing their voice while singing for long periods of time.

MISSED LESSONS/MAKE UPS: If the student needs to miss a lesson for sickness, they or their parent/ guardian, if the student is under 18, must let Rachel know at least 24 hours before their missed lesson. If they need to miss due to an other activity or vacation, they must contact Rachel at least a week from their next scheduled lesson in advance to prevent from forfeiting the lesson. All make ups will be scheduled within 4 weeks from the missed lesson. If rescheduled lesson or make up lesson is missed, no new make up will be given unless Rachel is not able to teach for some rare reason.

LATENESS: If a student is going to be late they need to contact Rachel as soon as possible, to let her know they will be late. Lessons will end on time unless she is able to extend the lesson due to a late student or her schedule allows for it though please understand, Rachel would be extending a courtesy and would not be obligated to do so. If on the rare occasion Rachel is running late, she will always make up the time.

SITTING IN: Parents/Guardians are ONLY permitted to stay for the first lesson and are NOT permitted to sit in for any other lesson/class unless invited. This is to promote good/strong teacher-student relationship quickly and easily. Also, many times students feel more comfortable when their parents/guardians leave.

"I try to be as fair as possible to both parties when it comes to cancellations, rescheduling, lateness, and make ups. Have a concern or question? Just talk with me. I'm all about communication!" - Rachel

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Reviews

Glenn March 26, 2017·Film Acting·In studio

Taking lessons with Rachel has been one the best decisions I've ever made. She not only has helped me with acting but has helped me become a better person. I've grown to understand myself and I've learned and done things I would never have done. And would never have been able to do. Her lessons will not only help you perform, they will help you in your everyday life.

Jacquelyn M. March 1, 2017·Film and TV Acting·In home

Rachel was friendly and very welcoming. She encouraged my daughter to be relaxed and to focus on putting herself in character. My daughter had a great first experience!

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About Marcel M.

I work in the industry for more than 10 years. I have my own production company since 2005. I directed movies as well so I know both sides very well. I in general use method acting when I prepare a project and or shoot a movie.

More here:Marcel MillerNetworxx Film Management

About Marcel

I work as a tutor and mentor in many of those fields for years. It was and is a side business, but I always enjoyed teaching.I am looking forward to move on with you and / or your kids.Have a great day,Marcel

Update 02/10/15: Takelessons is a great way to teach and a fantastic and easy way to learn for students. I currently have 3 students per week, with several hours. I really enjoy it, either online via Skype or Facetime or Live at the students place. Hit me up and let's move something together.

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Reviews

Ems July 2, 2017·Mixed Martial Arts·In home

I did not actually take any lessons with him, but his schedule did not reflect what showed as available in Takelessons. He had a very bad attitude and would not actually schedule the lesson after several exchanges.

Andy June 2, 2017·German·Online

I need to improve my spoken German for business and Marcel has been invaluable in helping me improve at a good pace while being incredibly flexible on lesson planning.

I've been working with him for about a month now and I've grown to feel more comfortable speaking with my colleagues who are native German speakers.

If you want a native, professional teacher who can be fun...Marcel is your guy.

Thia S. January 22, 2017·Microsoft Word·In home

Marcel is a great teacher, solved all my complicated issues and answered every question with advanced knowledge. He's patient and has a light humorous way of making you feel smart when you need it most!

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About Alexandra W.

I studied at the Moscow Art Theater school, the birthplace of Stanislavki's System. I've been teaching acting for 5 years and my students have gone on to gain acceptance into Harvard University, Yale University and NYU. I specialize in audition technique, cold reading technique, Shakespeare performance, scene study, voice, speech, physical acting, and character creation. I love working with students of all ages and experience levels! I can't wait to meet you!

About Alexandra

Alexandra has a BA from the University of Southern California (Recipient of Doolittle Award: Outstanding Female Performer of graduating class) and an MFA from the American Repertory Theater/Moscow Art Theater Institute for Advanced Theatre Training at Harvard University. Acting has taken her to Paris, London, and Moscow and has given her the opportunity to work with exceptional artists, such as Neil Patrick Harris, Neil Gaiman, Scott Zigler, and Kevin Bright. She coaches students privately and is currently teaching at Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum, American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and The New York Film Academy. She is also a monthly column contributor to the popular online arts magazine, Bleep.

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Reviews

Loredana C. September 18, 2017·Makeup·Online

Love it very much , thank you Alexandra for you help today ❤️️

Delhi E. August 21, 2017·Makeup·Online

She was very helpful and made it easy to understand and do!

Paul August 19, 2017·Makeup·Online

Helpful, does not just tell u she gives u a chance to tell her your thoughts and then she goes from the!

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About Jonna V.

30 years of experience in theatre, television, commercials, voice overs and Indie films. I started coaching other actors in 2014, focusing on techniques for on-camera acting and film audition coaching. I have the inside scoop on how the professional acting world works and I help prepare all students for the challenges that come with the biz. One pager perk is that I am also a Casting Director for commercial, television and film projects in the Midwest. I'm always talent scouting.

About Jonna

When I moved back to Springfield, MO from LA a few years ago (Because the schools are better and my family is here), I immediately noticed a desperate need for film acting education. We have good theatre programs in town, but most of the actors weren't quite aware of how to transition that for the screen. I've been blessed to have a lot of practice and education for on-camer acting, so I decided to share what I know.

It's been a cool adventure learning how to teach, especially since I'm still a working actor. I get to take my own advice and see if works. I have primarily adult students in my weekly classes as well as private lesson students, and they have been brave enough to try many new things. We explore all of the popular techniques to find what works for us. Acting is a very special craft for strong people.

I tell all of my stude

nts, "You have to be STRONG if you want to tell the stories of the human condition." My first piece of advice to help you become a great film actor is: DON'T SHOW ME HOW YOU FEEL. JUST FEEL IT.

I love people and I'd love to work with you.

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Reviews

Jason R. August 29, 2017·Improv Acting·Online

Jonna helped me so much! I'm not an actor or in the acting field but initially took lessons to improve my public speaking ability professionally & personally. I had an immediate boost in confidence and have developed a new respect & love of acting. My new skills are helping me daily. I'm hooked and now have a new passion in my life. Jonna is great!

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About Jason M.

Prepping an audition for an upcoming show or for admission into an acting program? Want to hone and develop your audition monologues (especially Shakespeare)? Just need a coach to help you take your acting to another level? Then let's get started, online or in person. I can help.

I've been working as a professional actor in the theatre and on-camera for over 25 years. I've performed with the Shakespeare Theatre in DC, ACT Theatre in Seattle, Book-It Repertory, Seattle Shakespeare Company, and Shakespeare Santa Cruz to name a few. I've also been the featured voice in voiceovers for companies like University of Washington Medical, Golden 1 State Credit Union, Microsoft, and Surface Pro 3. On Camera Credits include short films, industrials, and commercials for Taco Time, Tulalip Casino, and Washington Dental Association.

I hold a BFA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and an MFA from the Shakespeare Theatre's Academy for Classical Acting in Washington DC. My ...

About Jason

I've been performing roles in the theatre and on-camera for over 25 years. My BFA in Acting and Directing and my MFA in Classical Acting have afforded me a wide variety of tools and skills to employ in the craft of acting. Performing with professional repertory companies like ACT Theatre, Book-It Repertory, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, and the Shakespeare Theatre in DC, I've gained personal knowledge of the art, craft, and business of being a working actor, which I will put to work for you, in a personalized one-on-one coaching session, either online or in person.

Here's how I can help.

SCENE WORK AND MONOLOGUES: Whether it's dusting off and refreshing monologues you've performed more times than you can count, or developing pieces or scenes for the first time for an upcoming stage or on-camera audition, we can break the material down togethe

r, work on the clarity of your choices and active objectives, and access your personal connection to the material so you'll be ready and confident with a one-of-a-kind performance that reflects the strengths you bring to acting and the story you want to tell.

SHAKESPEARE: Perhaps the most daunting of styles for a contemporary actor, we'll get down to the nuts and bolts of some of the most challenging (and rewarding) material. The famous soliloquies are famous for a reason and can certainly be intimidating, and more obscure material can seem thick and inaccessible. We'll chip away at the mystique of Shakespeare by digging in to the text and verse, activating the language with specificity, and cultivating your personal take on well-known characters or lesser known material they might not have seen before.

DIALECTS AND ACCENTS: From English to Irish to Southern American and beyond, a well executed dialect can be the edge you need to land (and play) that meaty role. I use a multipronged approach that involves ear training to develop an authentic sound, text analysis for clarity of sound substitutions (IPA Proficient), and exercises that pare away stilted and unnatural speech to cultivate an authentic sounding voice that will be your own.

VOICEOVER: I've been booking voiceover gigs on TV, radio, and the internet for over 10 years with clients like Microsoft, Liberty Mutual, UW Medicine, Tableau, Reno Toyota, and Golden One State Credit Union. I can offer tips and tricks of the trade, as well as techniques that can take your VO submissions to the next level and help you book these lucrative contracts.

Let's get started!

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Jason M.

Bellevue, WA 98006

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$34
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About Ellen O.

I want to bring out your best work!! I have many years of training and experience. I know techniques that will make your acting richer, deeper, more colorful and full of communication with your fellow actors. I love great acting and I will want to bring out your best.

About Ellen

I want to bring out your best acting! My focus is on giving you tips and techniques that will make your acting more honest and fun. I have many years of experience and training in film, tv and theater. I am a Casting Director also so I know what we look for. You will find that while I am kind, I also love acting and believe that it has great value so I will draw out your best work.

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Ellen O.

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Ellen O.

Bellevue, WA 98004

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$25
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About Lonnie D.

I am a local actor and former theater high school theater teacher. I received my degree in Theater Arts, with an emphasis in performance, from the University of North Texas. I taught special education and high school theater. I'm currently interested in teaching theater in my own comfort zone and teach what I feel is important to learn.

About Lonnie

I have always been drawn to performance. I currently act around the DFW area and have been in plays and musical theater productions.

I have also made many connections in the community theater industry around Dallas, and can help the student look and prepare for auditions for theatrical performances, if the student has the desire to perform onstage.

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About Jane B.

Method acting depends on whether you are talking about the work of Constantin Stanislavski or of a later teacher, Lee Strasberg. I am a Stanislavski fan because I find that Strasberg's approach is too invasive of the actor's privacy. Stanislavski's system has stood the test of time, while Strasberg's overly emotional method is fast fading from the standard training of professional actors.

I am known for my ability to diagnose and solve an actor's problems quickly. I can see where an actor's talent lies and help to let it flourish using my logical and straightforward approach to instruction. My passion for acting is always present and contagious.

I have been teaching acting for thirty years privately as well as at acting schools and conservatories. I founded Acting Studio Chicago, headed the acting program at Louisiana State University, and recently retired as an Associate Professor of Acting at The Theatre School Conservatory at Depaul University in Chicago. My mentor was ...

About Jane

My passion is teaching acting!

My mission is to help actors learn and grow, especially those who weren't given lots of help. I myself had few financial advantages, and little help or encouragement from my family. I am not particularly good looking nor was I not able to attend one of the prestigious universities or acting schools.

However, At the age of 20, I began making my living as an actress and as a singer.I am now a long time member of AEA and SAG/AFTRA.

My success came from hard work, determination, and talent. My drive to work as an actress never included fame, I simply wanted to act anywhere and anytime. I struggled for many years to find a teacher or a method that would help me develop my talent and finally found one in Michael Shurtleff, author of the book, Audition. I worked with Michael for two years and became

his assistant. He inspired me to become a teacher, and I stopped acting because it no longer was as exciting to me as teaching and directing.

Now I teach workshops all over the country, do lots of skype and facetime coaching, and guest teach at universities. My dream of reaching lots of actors has come true and for that I am grateful.

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Reviews

Alessandro September 18, 2017·Audition Prep·In studio

In July 2017 I attended Jane's Fresh Faces for Film group session and from the moment she began the class I was taken aback by the depth and realism she brings to the art of acting. I knew I had come across an incredibly important person in my life; akin to the handful of teacher's in my youth that left an indelible mark on me. You quickly realize the experience and knowledge that she has established over her long career are immensely engaging and enriching. If you are willing to give in, she will take you down a path whereby you will learn not only acting but also something new about yourself. I am the sponge to her rain and extraordinarily privileged that our path's have crossed. I look forward to our next session.

Peter September 14, 2017·Acting·In studio

Jane Brody is a force of nature, and an amazing teacher, mentor, and coach. Jane believed in me before I believed in myself, taught me how to act with immediacy and truth, and gave me an unshakable foundation on which I can base all work. She's tough, passionate, creative, and whip-smart (also very funny).

Leah R September 14, 2017·Acting·In studio

Jane teaches a no-nonsense and innovative process that gives you the tools to prepare and feel confident in the audition or rehearsal room. Her energy is highly motivating.

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About Kenshaka A.

I have taught for more than 20 years at over 15 colleges, universities, and conservatories across the country. I specialize in Method Acting, and help my students become better actors regardless of their occupational field. I am an SAG/AFTRA, AEA member, and have worked and learned from some of the best in New York and Los Angeles. Teaching has long been my passion and joy.

About Kenshaka

I am a professional director, actor, and singer who has been performing since my teen years in NY. I hold MFA, MA, and BA degrees in performing arts. I have worked with many great actors including Samuel L. Jackson, Morgan Freeman and Soleil Moon Frye when she was one of my students at the New School in New York. I have coached literally thousands of actors and have hundreds of exercises to help you find what works best for you. Nothing satisfies me more than to see my students become proficient actors, maximize their talents and start working.